When Nicole* first came to Haven House, she was looking for a safe place for herself and her young son, but leaving an abusive relationship is rarely a single decision. For Nicole, the path forward included moments when she returned to her partner and later found her way back to Haven House.
Each time Nicole returned to Haven House, advocates welcomed her back without judgment. They understood that leaving an abusive relationship can be a process, and they were there whenever Nicole was ready for support.
“Over time, with ongoing support from our advocates, Nicole was able to recognize the cycle of abuse that she was facing,” said Phuong Brady, Shelter Supervisor at Haven House. “Each time she returned to the shelter, her confidence grew.”
Nicole started to believe that she was worthy of having a home of her own and that she and her son could build a life together. Knowing her son was safe and cared for at the shelter also gave Nicole the space to begin healing from what she had experienced.
Through Haven House’s children’s program, her son would participate in crafts, go on field trips and spend time simply being a kid. These activities provided some normalcy during an otherwise unpredictable time and allowed Nicole to attend counseling sessions and workshops.
As Nicole’s confidence grew, so did her belief that she and her son could build a life of their own. Finding a safe, stable home became an important goal. When she was able to achieve it, it felt like a secure future was even closer.
“Finding her own housing was a huge step for Nicole,” Phuong shared. “It really allowed her to envision this new chapter for her and her son.”
Having a place of her own gave Nicole and her son a new sense of stability, but she knew healing would take time.
Nicole continues to attend counseling as she processes her trauma and focuses on what comes next. Her son is now thriving in school, reflecting the consistency Nicole has worked to create for their family.
For Nicole, leaving her situation was not simply about finding a safe place to stay. It was about discovering that a different life was possible and taking steps to create it.
*Name changed for confidentiality.